The Sven Brask Chess Club was originally founded in Rhode Island in 1959. It is named after Sven Brask, the club patriarch from the club's opening until his death. Sven learned to play chess during the Depression, from a local teacher who charged 10 cents a game (a lot of money at the time!). Sven was a very strong club player, claiming many local masters' scalps. He was also a member of the Copenhagen (Denmark) Chess Club for several decades. When the club decided to name itself after Sven, he celebrated by doing a blindfold Knight's Tour, finishing on a square that the members chose!
The club has always remained in RI and SE Mass, although changing locations several times throughout the years. It currently has about 30 members, and the average tournment attendance is 16-24, and often higher for events such as the Club Championship.
We meet Wednesday nights from 7:30-11:30 year-round, and feature monthly USCF-rated tournaments, as well as skittles and blitz. We also feature special events throughout the year such as the Brask tournament , a unique format where you score points based on the number of moves it takes to win your game. Our membership includes all levels of players from beginner to master.
We strive for a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy chess without the pressure of large entry fees and prize funds. Club dues and entry fees are minimal, but are set each year to cover the cost of running the club (rent, tourney fees etc). We do offer small prizes for our tournaments as attendance and club finances permit. See the Dues and Fees section for the latest information. USCF (US Chess Federation) and club membership is required in order to play in our tournaments.